Ambulance accidents caused by ambulances speeding to or from and emergency can be catastrophic to everyone involved. Because the ambulance may have been traveling at a very high speed, a crash may be more likely to result in death or serious injury. Accidents may impact those in the ambulance, including the patient in the back of the vehicle. They may also involve cars or bicyclists that were hit by the speeding vehicle.
Some drivers have the impression that if they are hit by an ambulance with lights and siren going, they are out of luck. Because the ambulance was either headed to an emergency or taking a patient to the hospital, the vehicle automatically had the right of way. However, even ambulances involved in an urgent situation must exercise proper precaution on the road. This is especially true at intersections, where the large majority of ambulance accidents occur.
Getting Professional Help
When you are injured in an accident involving an ambulance, you do have legal rights. If it can be determined that the ambulance acted negligently or recklessly in any way, the company that owned the vehicle may be held liable for your injuries. Witnesses who saw the ambulance dash through the intersection without slowing, or drive irresponsibly in any way, can be instrumental in proving this type of case. Professional legal help from attorneys experienced with these types of accidents can also be essential in ensuring your rights are protected.
If you are injured in an accident involving an ambulance, once you have received proper medical care, your next call should be to an experienced car accident attorney who can evaluate your case and determine whether legal compensation is possible.
